Trump's McDonald's stint sparks campaign controversy
Donald Trump visited a McDonald's restaurant on the outskirts of Philadelphia on Sunday. He worked at the drive-thru register and fried chips. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris attended a service at an African American church in Georgia, celebrating her 60th birthday with Stevie Wonder.
21 Oct 2024 | updated: 21 October 2024 10:04
In the final days of his presidential campaign, Donald Trump decided to take on a job at McDonald's. "Hello, everybody. It's my first day at McDonald's, I'm looking for a job," he told the franchise owner in Feasterville-Trevose on Sunday. "I've always wanted to work at McDonald's, but I've never did. I’m running against somebody that said she did, but it turned out to be a totally phony story," he added.
Trump explained to reporters from the drive-thru window that he decided to visit McDonald's to highlight that his rival Kamala Harris allegedly lied, claiming that during her university years 40 years ago, she worked at one of the chain's restaurants.
"I’ve now worked for 15 minutes more than Kamala. She never worked here. And now, I’ve now worked for 15 minutes more than Kamala. Why? Because she's lying. Why would she lie? She shouldn't lie about it," continued the Republican candidate, maintaining that the company confirmed it. However, "USA Today" reports that McDonald's never publicly addressed this issue despite Trump's claims.
During his visit, Trump wore an apron, shirt, tie, and fried chips, which he really liked. He later served food to customers through the drive-thru window, telling them that he prepared it himself and everything was on his dime. Asked by reporters about his favourite dish from the restaurant, he stated that he likes everything and often dines at this fast-food chain. He also mocked his rival's remark that working in the kitchen is hard.
"She said she was so hot. That it's such a tough job," said Trump, noting that the restaurant employee welcoming him had been doing this job for many years.
Reporters also asked Trump if he would wish Harris a happy birthday. "She’s turning 60? I think I’ll get her some flowers. Maybe I’ll get her some fries…give her some McDonald’s fries," he said to the cameras.
Kamala Harris's 60th birthday
Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, celebrated her 60th birthday in Georgia, another key state, on Sunday. She visited two African American churches in Atlanta, encouraging people to participate in the elections. Harris pointed out that in Georgia, 100-year-old former President Jimmy Carter had already voted, adding that if he can vote, anyone can. During her visit to the church in Jonesboro, Harris was joined by singer Stevie Wonder, who sang her his song "Happy Birthday," originally composed for the establishment of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.